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Thailand’s leading opposition group the Move Forward Party (MFP) has levelled charges at the government for alleged embezzlement about the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) planned acquisition of a new frigate. The controversy, now infamously dubbed as the “change money” scandal, was brought into the limelight by Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, an MP from the MFP, on the final day of a general debate in Parliament that did not culminate in a censure vote. His allegations ignited a fiery exchange between the opposing factions of the government. The “change money” scandal typically involves a buyer procuring a product at a pre-arranged inflated price, with the seller returning the difference between the actual and inflated price to the buyer. In the present scenario, this act is being interpreted as a purported attempt at state funds embezzlement. Wiroj alleged that an RTN insider informed him about a government representative attempting to solicit the “change money” from the RTN’s frigate procurement funds, an offer that was refused by the navy. He claimed that a special House committee responsible for scrutinising the 2024 budget subsequently turned down the RTN’s budget request for the new frigate in the 2024 fiscal year and dismissed the RTN’s appeal against the decision. According to Wiroj, the new frigate, which is planned to be locally assembled, is paramount to the RTN’s central mission as HTMS Rattanakosin is due for decommissioning in two years. He highlighted the impact of this on the country’s naval strength, claiming that only three frigates will remain in service, potentially insufficient for maritime defence missions. Wiroj also emphasised the significance of the new frigate as the first of its kind to be assembled in Thailand. He claimed the assembly process would create jobs and income for local workers, facilitate the transfer of technical expertise in shipbuilding, and utilise locally sourced construction materials. Frigate procurement Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang affirmed that the frigate procurement project would continue as per schedule, despite the House committee rejecting the budget request. He suggested that the project would proceed in subsequent fiscal years, excluding the current 2024 fiscal year. The RTN had earlier requested 17 billion baht from the 2024 budget to support its frigate procurement plans, with an estimated 1.7 billion baht earmarked for the first year. The new frigate is intended for deployment along the Andaman coast. Shipyards from various countries including the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, Turkey, and South Korea, in addition to local firms, have shown interest in constructing a frigate for the navy. Responding to Wiroj’s allegations, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin urged him to present evidence to substantiate his accusations. “In principle, the procurement of a new frigate that will be locally assembled is a good idea. But several issues, such as international relations, must also be taken into account. Talks are being held to ensure the navy gets the best deal.” He further expressed surprise at the MFP’s support for the frigate purchase project, given their previous suggestion to replace the navy’s warships with fishing trawlers. Defence Minister Sutin echoed this sentiment, noting the MFP’s annual opposition to military procurement projects, and expressing surprise at their support for the frigate purchase. by Mitch Connor Picture of Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Governor warns of fuel station scams this Songkran by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post To safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324201-governor-warns-of-fuel-station-scams-this-songkran/

To safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province. Accompanied by a team of officials including Siriwan Kanasorn, Nopadol Suwongpradit, and Chanthip Niamprad, inspections were conducted yesterday, to prevent any nefarious practices that could leave motorists out of pocket. The focal point of these inspections was the accuracy of fuel metering devices, ensuring adherence to national standards. Utilising a 5-litre standard measuring container as a benchmark, officials verified that the fuel dispensed matched the advertised quantity within legal tolerances, with all stations found to be compliant. To bolster consumer rights and market fairness, officials issued a stern reminder. Any instances of misconduct such as overpricing or discrepancies between advertised and actual prices must be promptly reported. Consumers are urged to utilise the Department of Internal Trade’s 24-hour hotline at 1569 or file complaints at any provincial commercial office, reported Hua Hin Today. Prachuap Khiri Khan’s local government isn’t pulling any punches against offenders. Penalties for violations range from fines up to 10,000 baht for failing to display price tags, to imprisonment for up to seven years coupled with fines reaching 140,000 baht for severe offences like overcharging, hoarding, or refusal to sell. In related news, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) stated that a potential increase in domestic diesel prices, which could surpass 30 baht a litre following the termination of the Oil Fuel Fund subsidy scheme on March 31, is unlikely to prompt manufacturers to raise the prices of their goods. In other news, Tri Petch Isuzu, Thailand’s Isuzu vehicle distributor, is joining forces with PTT Plc to test vehicles powered by a novel clean fuel. This initiative is aimed at supporting efforts to reduce the high carbon dioxide emissions from Thailand’s transport sector. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Reckless Handling of Gasoline Causes Pattaya Shop Fire, One Person Injured By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A man was filling bottles with gasoline while smoking a cigarette when the gasoline suddenly caught fire and burned the man and his house, causing him moderate injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324199-reckless-handling-of-gasoline-causes-pattaya-shop-fire-one-person-injured/

Pattaya — A man was filling bottles with gasoline while smoking a cigarette when the gasoline suddenly caught fire and burned the man and his house, causing him moderate injuries. The incident took place at 8:23 PM on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024, at a shop house on the opposite of the Pattaya Provincial Court in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Three fire trucks were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters found a large crowd of people gathered around the burning house. The fire had engulfed the zinc-roofed house, and the flames were intense. Firefighters evacuated nearby residents and used water cannons to extinguish the fire. It took them nearly 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai condo market dominated by Chinese and Russian investors by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Expats Foreign buyers from China and Russia dominated the Thai condominium market in 2023, as per data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC). The report disclosed a total of 14,449 units, valued at 73.2 billion baht, were purchased by international buyers, marking a 25% increase from 2022. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324198-thai-condo-market-dominated-by-chinese-and-russian-investors/

Foreign buyers from China and Russia dominated the Thai condominium market in 2023, as per data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC). The report disclosed a total of 14,449 units, valued at 73.2 billion baht, were purchased by international buyers, marking a 25% increase from 2022. Chinese investors led the way, acquiring 6,614 units, approximately 46% of the total sales, amounting to 34.1 billion baht. Russian buyers followed, purchasing 1,260 units. Myanmar and the United States buyers trailed in the third and fourth positions, respectively. Interestingly, the highest average price per unit, at 6.6 million baht, was paid by buyers from Myanmar. The majority of these sales, about 41%, were recorded in Chon Buri, known for the resort city of Pattaya and numerous industrial estates. Bangkok’s condominium sales to foreigners accounted for 38% of the total, with units priced below 3 billion baht making up nearly half of these purchases. It is noteworthy that in 2023, condominiums bought by foreign investors constituted approximately 13.4% of all transferred condos. The law stipulates that foreigners can own up to 49% of a condominium development’s usable space. The surge in sales was attributed to temporary visa waivers granted to tourists from China and other countries last year, along with a permanent bilateral waiver with Beijing from March 1, the REIC reported. Geopolitical conflicts such as Russia’s war with Ukraine and political instability in Myanmar were also factors. REIC acting director Wichai Wiratkaphan believes the foreign condominium purchases are improving and returning to normal. Foreign condominium sales in 2023 were 13% higher than the 12,798 units sold for a total of 50.6 billion baht in 2019, as per REIC data. Tourism, a sector directly responsible for about 12% of the country’s gross domestic product and nearly a fifth of jobs, is viewed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as a key driver to boost the country’s sluggish economic growth. Along this line, last year, the government waived visas for travellers from China, Russia, Kazakhstan, India and Taiwan. Additionally, airlines were instructed to add more routes and streamline airport operations to reduce waiting times. The Tourism Authority of Thailand anticipates a further recovery to between 35 million and 40 million visitors this year, including 8.2 million from China. This projection brings the country closer to the record of almost 40 million visitors set in 2019, before the pandemic, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Expats Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s airports to see more than two million jet-setters by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation The Transport Ministry anticipates a surge of 2.61 million travellers across Airports of Thailand (AOT)’s six international hubs during the seven-day Songkran festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324197-thailand’s-airports-to-see-more-than-two-million-jet-setters/

The Transport Ministry anticipates a surge of 2.61 million travellers across Airports of Thailand (AOT)’s six international hubs during the seven-day Songkran festivities. Minister Suriya, in a recent announcement, affirmed preparations for the expected influx, rallying relevant agencies to gear up for the travel onslaught spanning from April 11 to 17. Ensuring passenger comfort and safety remains paramount, Suriya directed AOT to execute stringent measures across all airports. Projections indicate a whopping 28.5% increase in passenger volume compared to last year, with an estimated 1.65 million foreigners and a considerable number of local travellers. Additionally, flight frequencies are slated to soar, with 15,113 flights scheduled, marking a 16.71% surge from the previous year, comprising 8,682 international and 6,431 domestic flights. To alleviate potential parking woes, Suriya announced complimentary parking privileges at Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s Zone D from April 12 to 16 and at Don Mueang International Airport’s fifth-floor car park from April 11 to 17. Meanwhile, AOT’s CEO, Kirati Kitmanawat, unveiled plans for a dedicated coordination hub, ensuring round-the-clock assistance and surveillance to guarantee passenger well-being. Amidst the travel frenzy, passengers are encouraged to streamline their airport experience by utilising automated kiosks for boarding and luggage handling, thereby sidestepping lengthy queues, reported The Nation. With meticulous planning and provisions in place, Thailand aims to navigate the impending travel surge with efficiency and ease. In related news, several international airlines have urged Thailand to enhance its key airport facilities and improve transport links between airports and cities, to meet its ambition of becoming a regional aviation hub. The Thai government has laid out a goal of handling 150 million passengers annually by 2030. Egaluk Ngiwprom, Southeast Asia marketing manager of Spring Airlines, believes this is a challenging target and suggests numerous areas that need attention. In other news, Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport is gearing up for an influx of approximately 625,000 passengers during the Songkran holiday period, which runs from April 11 to 17. It expects over 4,000 flights, marking a substantial 10.58% rise from the previous year’s data. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hua Hin News 04/24 - Events, Day trips, Death Railway, HH Sailing, Stateless people, property advice Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324196-hua-hin-news-0424-events-day-trips-death-railway-hh-sailing-property-advice/

Andrew Sloan and Richard Buckle chat about some local news and what's coming up and happening in the beautiful sea side town of Hua Hin. Also some tips on what to think about when buying property in Hua Hin. 0:00 - Introduction 1:27 - Death Railway Revisited - River Kwai 5:46 - Hua Hin Sailing club 8:05 - Jungle Aid charity trip to stateless village 10:54 - The Isan Project music and videos of Thailand 13:36 - Acrobatic Theatre in Hua Hin 14:43 - What happening and news in Hua Hin 21:15 - Khao Sam Roi Yot national park view point Podcast: Death Railway Revisited, by Nicholas Fordham https://rss.com/podcasts/death-railwa... Please COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, LIKE AND SHARE to support our channel. Our thanks to Richard Buckle of https://surf.radio for the Hua Hin Update.

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 5 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324195-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-5-april-2024/

A Move Forward Party MP Mr Wiroj yesterday accused the government of attempting to embezzle budget funds during the navy's purchase of a new frigate during a heated debate.. The so called "change money" scandal, takes place when a buyer purchases a product at a pre-arranged, inflated price, and the difference between the actual price and the inflated one, is then returned to the buyer. Mr Wiroj claimed someone from the government asked the Navy for the "change money" from the purchase of the frigate, but the request was denied. Adding, The navy's request for a budget to buy the new frigate this year was then rejected. The Move Forward Party also accused the government of failing to stamp out call centre gangs operating on the other side of the Thai-Myanmar border. Claiming the Thai coalition has close ties with several powerful figures linked to casinos in Myanmar, which are also connected to gangs running call centers. The global price of diesel jumped by more than 2.7 dollars a barrel in a single day, Leading to concern that diesel prices here may have to rise above the Bt30 baht per litre ceiling, Agreed between the government and road hauliers. A police lieutenant has been arrested on charges of assembling air rifles and selling them online. The 35 year old was apprehended when police raided his home in Nonthaburi, officers seized three high-pressure air rifles, 200 pellets, 150 scopes, and related equipment. A major fire broke out last night at a recycling company in Ratchaburi , It took fire crews about 3 hours to extinguish the blaze using 20 fire trucks. Around the region Taiwan, Rescue and recovery continues following Wenesdays deadly earthquake. A helicopter plucked six people to safety after being stranded in a mining area, and rescue workers reached 400 people by air who had been cut off in a hotel in a mountainous national park. At least 38 people are still unaccounted for. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny 41C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 37C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 35C Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, winds light from the south 35 C AQI Orange High, Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-04-05 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Online Loan Shark Gang Crushed: 2,000% Annual Interest! Picture: Daily News The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) dismantled a major online loan shark gang in Chai Nat province, imposing an exorbitant 2,000% annual interest rate and enforcing a 7-day repayment deadline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324193-online-loan-shark-gang-crushed-2000-annual-interest/

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) dismantled a major online loan shark gang in Chai Nat province, imposing an exorbitant 2,000% annual interest rate and enforcing a 7-day repayment deadline. The operation unveiled a network of over 80 online loan apps, circulating billions of baht, with backers expected to face legal repercussions, reported Daily News. In Case No. 55/2566, DSI probed into online personal loan apps like "Best Loan" and "Easy Baht – Quick Credit," uncovering unauthorized loan dispersals online. Moreover, over 80 related apps were found, charging an interest rate of 2,339.65% per year and demanding repayment within a week. Non-compliance led to harassment by debt collectors, inducing fear among borrowers. Picture: Daily News DSI, alongside legal authorities and Chai Nat police, conducted raids at two locations linked to the suspects, seizing crucial evidence including mobile phones, bank account ledgers, and a circulating fund of 2 billion baht. Notably, suspicions arose regarding cryptocurrency conversions, suggesting deeper financial manipulation. Picture: Daily News DSI Deputy Director, Major General Yutthana Praedam, affirmed the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the need to probe into the suspects' financial backers. Pending charges will follow comprehensive examinations of seized evidence, aiming to ensure justice for victims of this predatory lending scheme. TOP Picture: Daily News -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Immigration Inspections and Crime Awareness Drive Before Songkran Festival Under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Samniang, head of Chiang Rai Provincial Police, thorough inspections of hotel accommodations and public awareness campaigns regarding the reporting of residences under Article 38 of the Immigration Act, BE 2522, were carried out by the Chiang Rai Immigration Office on April 4th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324192-immigration-inspections-and-crime-awareness-drive-before-songkran-festival/

Under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Samniang, head of Chiang Rai Provincial Police, thorough inspections of hotel accommodations and public awareness campaigns regarding the reporting of residences under Article 38 of the Immigration Act, BE 2522, were carried out by the Chiang Rai Immigration Office on April 4th. Led by Pol. Col. Prinyaporn Burapholit, deputy chief of Chiang Rai Immigration Office, the investigative team inspected several hotels in Chiang Rai province to deter criminal activities ahead of the Songkran festival, reported 77kaoded. Picture: 77kaoded The inspection aimed to ensure compliance with immigration laws and related regulations. The inspected hotels included Thasai Residence, Kong Garden View Resort, and Sirimanta Hotel in various areas of Chiang Rai. No legal violations were found during the inspections. However, hotel operators were urged to cooperate by reporting any suspicious behavior, especially by foreign individuals, to the emergency hotline 1178 or directly to the Chiang Rai Immigration Office at 0-5312-1323, available 24/7. Picture: 77kaoded -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Illegal Russian Tour Guides Arrested in Rawai and Karon By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – Two male and female illegal Russian tour guides were arrested in Rawai and Karon on Wednesday (April 3rd). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324187-two-illegal-russian-tour-guides-arrested-in-rawai-and-karon/

Phuket – Two male and female illegal Russian tour guides were arrested in Rawai and Karon on Wednesday (April 3rd). The Phuket Tourist Police told the Phuket Express that they first arrested a suspect identified only as Mr. IURII, 37, Russian national, at a parking area at the Phrom Thep Cape in Rawai. Officers followed Mr. IURII after one tourist police officer noticed the suspect appearing to lead a tour group of about eight foreign tourists traveling in a minivan from the Karon Viewpoint to the Phrom Thep Cape. He was taken to the Chalong Police Station after he could not produce a work permit or work visa. Then officers arrested a suspect identified only as MS. ULIIA, 21, Russian national, at the Phuket Big Buddha (Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkhon Ek Nakkhiri) on the Nakkerd Hill in Karon. Officers followed MS. ULIIA after spotting her appearing to be working near an elephant camp in Chalong with 18 foreign tourists traveling in two minivans to the Phuket Big Buddha. She was taken to the Karon Police Station after also being unable to produce proper documentation. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-Boyfriend of Passenger Mistakenly Attacks Pattaya Bolt Driver By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A Thai man mistakenly attacked a Bolt driver in Pattaya, thinking the driver was the new boyfriend of his former girlfriend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324186-ex-boyfriend-of-passenger-mistakenly-attacks-pattaya-bolt-driver/

Pattaya — A Thai man mistakenly attacked a Bolt driver in Pattaya, thinking the driver was the new boyfriend of his former girlfriend. On Thursday, April 4th, 2024, Mr. Pairat Songsod, a 40-year-old Bolt driver, filed a complaint with Pol. Lt. Phuttharak Sonkhamhan, Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Pattaya Police Station, after being assaulted by the ex-boyfriend of his female passenger, Ms. Kulrat (family name withheld), 24. According to Mr. Pairat, he had parked his car, which was still running, at a bar on Chaiyapruek 1 Road, waiting to pick up Ms. Kulrat, his passenger, who he had never met before and who had booked a ride on the mobile Bolt application on the day of the incident. However, as the young woman was getting into the car, a young, unidentified man suddenly opened the door and started hitting Ms. Kulrat. Feeling concerned for the woman, Mr. Pairat locked his car doors for safety. However, this angered the attacker, who mistakenly thought Mr. Pairat was Ms. Kulrat’s new boyfriend, according to the woman. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two navy conscripts die in early morning Chachoengsao road crash by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic road accident claimed the lives of two people early this morning when a van carrying navy conscripts collided with an 18-wheeler in Chachoengsao province. The van, which was hired by navy personnel returning to their homes for the Songkran holiday break, veered off course when the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324185-two-navy-conscripts-die-in-early-morning-chachoengsao-road-crash/

A tragic road accident claimed the lives of two people early this morning when a van carrying navy conscripts collided with an 18-wheeler in Chachoengsao province. The van, which was hired by navy personnel returning to their homes for the Songkran holiday break, veered off course when the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The incident occurred at 4.30am, today, April 4, on Highway 304, near the Poon Submarket in the Phanom Sarakham district. Upon receiving the emergency call, police officer Sunthorn Amornwet and rescue workers from Phanom Sarakham rushed to the scene. They discovered a horrifying spectacle: a white passenger van from Bangkok, lying overturned in the middle of the road. Its roof was ripped open, and more than ten passengers were scattered across the tarmac, injured. The van, carrying a total of 13 navy conscripts, had collided with a trailer truck transporting a container, resulting in the vehicle flipping over. Two individuals tragically lost their lives—one at the scene and another at the hospital. Emergency responders worked swiftly to aid the survivors, transporting them to a nearby hospital for urgent care. Rescue personnel also had to use specialised equipment to extricate the deceased and two more injured individuals who were trapped inside the van. The survivors, who were all navy conscripts granted leave for the Songkran festival, shared that they had rented the van to travel from a military camp in Chon Buri to their hometown in Nong Bua Lamphu province. They recounted that most of them were asleep during the journey before the crash happened, leaving them disoriented and in shock following the accident. Initial reports from rescue services indicated that three individuals were critically injured, with another ten sustaining less severe injuries. Authorities from the Royal Thai Police and rescue services are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident and will take appropriate legal action based on their findings, reported KhaoSod. The driver of the 18-wheeler, who was unharmed, witnessed the van suddenly drift off course and collide with his vehicle. The impact damaged the right rear side of his truck but, fortunately, he did not sustain any injuries. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai monk arrested for drinking alcohol and approaching nuns by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 Thai police arrested a Thai monk last night and forced him to quit the monkhood after he was caught drinking alcohol and trying to enter the rooms of two nuns at a temple in the Isaan province of Buriram. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324183-thai-monk-arrested-for-drinking-alcohol-and-approaching-nuns/

Thai police arrested a Thai monk last night and forced him to quit the monkhood after he was caught drinking alcohol and trying to enter the rooms of two nuns at a temple in the Isaan province of Buriram. Two nuns at the unidentified temple in Buriram sought help from Satuek Police Station in the middle of the night after the 35 year old monk, Prakid Cherdsakun, attempted to break into their rooms. The nuns added that Prakid could not get their rooms, so he vented his anger by randomly firing slingshots at their accommodations. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Prakid in an intoxicated state. He admitted to drinking alcohol but denied trying to enter the nuns’ rooms. He said he fired slingshots at their rooms due to the nuns leaving lights on all night, wasting electricity. One of the nuns, identified only as A, revealed that Prakid drank alcohol daily but never caused any trouble before. A said she could not forgive him for his behaviour and wanted him to leave the temple. Another nun, B, revealed that Prakid came to the temple three months ago after being expelled from his previous temple. B said Prakid always set himself up as a leader and ordered the nuns to work for him like servants. Alcohol epilepsy treatment B expressed to Prakid that his alcohol habit troubled her the most. She recounted instances where Prakid’s mother would offer him alcohol daily and would even partake in drinking with her son at the temple. B implored Prakid’s mother to cease this practice, citing its violation of the Buddhist monks’ regulations. However, Prakid’s mother defended her actions, claiming that the alcohol served as a remedy for Prakid’s epilepsy symptoms. Despite these assertions, B observed that the alcohol exacerbates Prakid’s condition rather than alleviating it. Consequently, the police intervened, instructing Prakid to renounce his monkhood immediately, even in his inebriated state. Prakid was escorted to the police station, although no specific charges were announced. Prakid’s 53 year old mother, Somjai, denied providing her son with alcohol, claiming that another monk at the temple influenced him to drink and that her son was unable to refuse. She expressed her determination to find another temple for Prakid and encouraged him to re-enter monkhood, convinced that this was his sole chance for survival. The mother asserted that only by becoming a monk could Prakid manage his epilepsy symptoms. Otherwise, she feared he would die. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 Story: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe